By K. Ericson Sayee
MONROVIA, Oct. 18 (LINA) – The House of Representatives (HoR) has summoned the Minister of Local Government and the Deputy Minister for Urban Affairs to explain the ministry’s decision to dissolve or downgrade the status of some Liberian cities.
The decision followed concerns raised by lawmakers over the ministry’s authority to alter the status of cities established by the Legislature.
During the House’s sitting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Sinoe County District #3 Representative Alex Noah called on plenary to inquire into the basis for the ministry’s decision, questioning whether it had the legal authority to downgrade cities without legislative approval.
Rep. Noah argued that cities whose status was established by the Legislature should not be dissolved or downgraded without the lawmakers’ authorization.
He cited Chapter 2.16(c) of the Local Government Act of 2018, which, according to him, provides for the evaluation and reporting of local government performance while requiring legislative approval for formal changes to city status.
The lawmaker further warned that the decision could have consequences beyond the administrative status of the affected cities, including potential job losses among people providing services in those communities.
He said such a development could place additional pressure on both the Legislature and the Executive, particularly as unemployment remains a major concern for the country.
During the ensuing debate, several lawmakers supported the proposal to invite officials of the Ministry of Local Government to appear before plenary and address concerns raised by citizens through their elected representatives.
Following deliberations, the House agreed to summon Local Government Minister Francis Sakila Nyumalin and Deputy Minister for Urban Affairs Fatima Bintu Sirleaf to explain the ministry’s position on the matter.
The two officials are expected to appear before plenary on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, to respond to lawmakers’ concerns.
Plenary subsequently directed the Chief Clerk of the House to formally communicate the invitation to the ministry’s officials.
The invitation is intended to give the ministry’s leadership an opportunity to clarify the legal basis for its decision and explain its position on the ongoing controversy surrounding the status of the affected cities.